Pumpkin Risotto Con La Zucca Food

ORZOTTO CON ZUCCA (BARLEY & PUMPKIN RISOTTO)

Steps:

• Bring the stock to the boil in a large pan, add the barley and simmer until done, about 40 minutes. If you want you can add some chopped mushrooms to this for the last 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave, boil or roast the pumpkin until soft. I usually roast mine with a few sprigs of thyme for extra flavour.
• Put the cooked pumpkin together with the butter into a blender and process to a puree.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper.
• Add the puree to the barley and season again with salt and pepper.
• Just before serving mix the parmesan into the 'risotto'.
• Serve hot with fresh crusty bread.

PUMPKIN RISOTTO CON LA ZUCCA

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the pumpkin; boil until soft, 15-20 minutes. Drain the pumpkin and purée until smooth in a blender or food processor.
• Put 2 tablespoons butter or oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the onions and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, nutmeg and herbs, and continue cooking another minute or so; do not brown.
• Add 2 tablespoons butter or oil; raise the heat to medium-high and add the rice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it is glossy and coated, 2 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper; stir in the wine and let most of it bubble away.
• Begin adding the pumpkin purée and stock alternately, 1/2 cup or so at a time, stirring after each addition. When the liquid is just about evaporated, add more; the consistency should not be soupy or dry. Stir frequently.
• Taste the rice about 20 minutes after you add it. You want it to be tender but still have some crunch; this can take up to 30 minutes. When the rice is done, turn off the heat and stir in the remaining butter or oil and Parmesan; taste and adjust the seasoning. Heat a dry skillet and add the nuts; toast until fragrant. Sprinkle the risotto with toasted nuts and more freshly grated Parmesan; serve.